IRMAA Thresholds and What Counts Towards IRMAA
IRMAA is an income-based surcharge added to Medicare Part B and Part D premiums using your tax return from two years ago. This guide explains what counts toward MAGI, how IRMAA brackets work for 2026, and the moves that commonly trigger a surcharge—plus when an appeal may lower your costs.
Medicare Advantage Plans Are Ending in 2026 for Millions: Here’s What to Do
In 2026, millions of people enrolled in Medicare Advantage will lose their current plan. Why? Because of something called a Medicare Service Area Reduction (SAR). That’s the technical term. What it really means for you is simple: your insurance company has decided...
Can You Use GoodRx With Medicare?
How Does GoodRx Work With Medicare? If you’re on Medicare and you’ve seen GoodRx ads, you might wonder: should I use a discount card at the pharmacy, or my Medicare Part D benefit? Here’s the plain-English answer: GoodRx can lower a cash price, but it does not work...
What Does Medicare Part D Cover in 2026?
Medicare Part D covers most retail prescriptions you get at the pharmacy or through mail order. Learn how formularies, premiums, and coverage rules work in 2026 so you’re not surprised at the counter.
Does Medicare Cover Alzheimer’s Care? What Families Need to Know
“What does Medicare actually cover if my loved one has Alzheimer’s?” That’s usually the very first question I hear after a diagnosis. And it’s a fair one. Alzheimer’s doesn’t just affect memory—it changes daily life, finances, and the type of care someone will need...
Medicare Star Ratings: What They Really Mean for You
Medicare Star Ratings give plans one to five stars for quality, service, and member satisfaction. But do they really help you choose the right plan? Here’s what you need to know.
Medicare Advantage MOOP: What to Watch for in 2026
In 2026, Medicare Advantage MOOPs rise to $9,850 in-network and $14,750 combined. Here’s why it matters, what to check in your ANOC, and how to protect yourself.
IRMAA Appeals (SSA-44): How to Lower Your Medicare Premiums in 2026
If your income dropped and you’re paying extra for Medicare, you may qualify to reduce IRMAA. This step-by-step guide shows how to file SSA-44, what documents to include, and what to expect in 2026—with links to thresholds, Part D basics, and our IRMAA hub.
Does Medicare Call You at Home? (2026 Guide to Real vs. Scam Calls)
Does Medicare call you at home? Sometimes—but only in limited, verifiable situations. Learn how to tell real calls from scams, what to do if you pick up, and the safest way to verify anything using 1-800-MEDICARE and trusted resources.
What Is the Medigap (Medicare Supplement) Birthday Rule?
Will My Birthday Let Me Switch Medigap Plans Without Health Questions? If you already have a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, you may have heard about something called the “Birthday Rule.” In short, it gives some people a once-a-year chance to switch Medigap plans...
Medicare and COBRA – What You Need to Know Before Making a Costly Mistake
COBRA and Medicare don’t work the way most people think. If you’re 65+ and retiring, find out why COBRA isn’t a substitute for Medicare, how to avoid penalties, and when COBRA might make sense.
Understanding the Difference Between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement Plans
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can be a fantastic tool for managing healthcare costs, but the rules around contributing to an HSA while on Medicare can be a bit tricky. Let’s dive into whether you can contribute to an HSA while enrolled in Medicare Part A but not Part B and what you need to know to make the most of your HSA.